In the last few days, two traffic loop islands at the intersection of Oak and Stanyan streets have been blocked off with chain-link fencing.

Connie Chan, deputy director of communications for Recreation & Parks, confirmed today that the agency is responsible for the closure.

"We're doing some some tree work and landscape work in the area," Chan said. "In that area, there's a lot of foot traffic. We're putting the fence up because it's a much safer way to do the work we need to do."

The intersection's towering eucalyptus and cypress trees have long been a downed-limb hazard, and Chan said work will commence shortly, with the areas expected to reopen later in the season.

The area joins the adjacent Stanyan frontage area as a target of Rec & Parks' efforts to improve the vicinity.

Work on the $5.5 million frontage project, which will give the eastern end of Golden Gate Park a series of upgrades, is set to be open to bidders later this summer.